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February 1998
ML4621 Data Quantizer
GENERAL DESCRIPTION
The ML4621 data quantizer is a low noise, wideband monolithic IC designed specifically for signal recovery applications in fiber-optic receiver systems. It contains a two stage wideband limiting amplifier which is capable of accepting an input signal as low as 2mV with a 55dB dynamic range. This high level of sensitivity is achieved by using a DC restoration feedback loop which nulls any offset voltage produced in the limiting amplifier. The output stage is a high speed comparator circuit with both TTL and ECL outputs. An enable pin is included for added control. The minimum signal discriminator circuit provides a link monitor function with a user selectable reference voltage.